Frostweed

When I am trying to come up with an idea on a subject for my every other week KWB column, I usually look around in my own yard and neighborhood for inspiration. This morning as I was siting out in the swing, I noticed the rather large white flowers on the Frostweed plant. Frostweed has a name that really does seem to identify it. First, it is somewhat weedy and can easily become invasive. The leaves are large, and the plant can be from four to six feet tall although it is usually around 4 feet. Its unique peculiarity is that when a heavy frost comes, its stems split open and emit a liquid that turns into what I call “snowcone ice”. This unique formation of ice melts fairly soon, so, hopefully, you will see it on your early morning excursions.

I found my best information on this native, perennial plant by going online as most of my wildflower books don’t even mention it even though it is quite common in the Wimberley area and other places. It grows in full sun, partial shade or full shade. One of my neighbors has a small grove of it growing in the full shade of a stand of oak trees. Thankfully, he lets it grow and bloom. Many householders probably mow the “stuff” down.

Bees and butterflies are attracted to the lovely blossoms which are abundant in August and September. When the flowers go to seed, birds flock to them.

My online source said that Frostweed (also sometimes called White Crownbeard), has been overlooked by commercial nurseries but they hope you will consider it for your yard. I certainly enjoy mine and my neighbor’s.

Written by Martha Knies